Caves and Legends Explore the Underground World of Easter Island
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Hike through Easter Island’s most remote and spectacular caves — places most travelers never get to see. These dark lava tubes were once homes, shelters, and sacred spaces. Inside, you’ll find stone beds, carved entryways, and traces of the island’s earliest inhabitants. With dramatic coastal views, rugged terrain, and expert local guidance, this tour offers a rare opportunity to connect with Rapa Nui’s hidden past in a raw, immersive way.
Available options
Caves and Legends Explore the Underground World of Easter Island
Pickup included
What's included
Local professional driver/guide
Private transportation
Bottled water
Hotel pickup/drop-off
Detailed itinerary
1
Venture into one of Easter Island’s longest and most spacious caves — a 200-meter lava tube with visible traces of its ancient inhabitants. We'll enter from one end, walk through the tunnel, and exit on the other side, experiencing how nature and history intertwine underground.
2
Explore one of Easter Island’s most complete ancient villages, featuring the island’s largest hare paenga (the houses of the ancient inhabitants) and traditional structures like manavai plantation gardens and chicken houses.
The ceremonial ahu platform here stands out for its craftsmanship — its stone blocks were cut to fit together more precisely than at most other sites. Multiple moai statues lie toppled around the site, which remain unrestored, offering a raw, authentic glimpse into Rapa Nui’s past.
3
Step into Ana Te Pora, a medium-sized lava tube tucked near the cliffs of Easter Island’s northwest coast. Its vaulted chamber has smooth walls and a narrow, stone-reinforced entrance designed for protection. Inside, a unique rectangular stone structure—resembling a bed or worktable—hints at the cave’s possible domestic or ceremonial use. We’ll pass through the cave and exit through a natural hole on the other side.
4
Known as the "Cave of Two Windows," Ana Kakenga is a dramatic lava tube perched on the cliffs of Easter Island’s northwest coast. The entrance is a narrow, vertical hole in the ground — modified by the island’s ancient inhabitants with stone walls to make access easier and protect against the wind. Inside, the tunnel opens into a spacious chamber, with two lava-carved corridors leading to natural windows in the cliffside, offering breathtaking views of the Pacific Ocean and the offshore islet Motu Tautara.
What's not included
Gratuities
1 ticket per person, valid for all tours and sites, bought online beforehand
We'll offer to stop at a place where you prefer
Tour not available for cruise ship passengers
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
ES
Important information
Not recommended for travelers with spinal injuries
Not recommended for pregnant travelers
Not recommended for travelers with poor cardiovascular health
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
The national park ticket will be admission ticket to the attractions
The traveler will present the National Park Ticket to enter the attractions
About Hanga Roa
Hanga Roa is the main town and capital of Easter Island, known for its mysterious Moai statues and rich Polynesian culture. This remote island offers a unique blend of natural beauty, archaeological wonders, and a laid-back island lifestyle.
Top Attractions
Ahahu Tahai
An ancient ceremonial site with restored Moai statues and a beautiful sunset view.
Historical
1-2 hours
Free
Rano Raraku
The quarry where most of the Moai statues were carved. It offers a unique insight into the island's history.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (entry fee)
Ahu Tongariki
The largest ahu (ceremonial platform) on Easter Island, featuring 15 restored Moai statues.
Historical
1-2 hours
Moderate (entry fee)
Anakena Beach
The most famous beach on Easter Island, known for its white sand and clear waters.
Beach
Half-day
Free
Orongo
A ceremonial village with a rich history, offering stunning views of the island's coastline.
Historical
2-3 hours
Moderate (entry fee)
Must-Try Local Dishes
Curanto
A traditional Rapa Nui dish cooked in an underground oven, featuring a mix of meats, seafood, and vegetables.
Main Dish
Contains meat and seafood, can be adapted for vegetarian/vegan
Po'e
A sweet banana pudding made from bananas, sugar, and sometimes coconut milk.
Dessert
Vegetarian, can be vegan with substitutions
Ika Mata
Raw fish marinated in citrus juice, similar to ceviche, often served with vegetables.
Appetizer
Contains fish, can be made with other seafood
Popular Activities
Hiking
Scuba diving
Surfing
Beach lounging
Yoga
Spa treatments
Visiting archaeological sites
Attending local festivals
Best Time to Visit
December to March
This is the summer season with warm temperatures, clear skies, and vibrant festivals. It's the best time for beach activities and outdoor exploration.
20-28°C
68-82°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: Spanish
- Widely spoken: Rapa Nui (local Polynesian language), English (limited)
- English: Limited
Currency
Chilean Peso (CLP)
Time Zone
CLST (Chile Summer Time, GMT-4)
Electricity
220VV, 50HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Generally safe
Hanga Roa is generally safe with low crime rates, but travelers should take standard precautions.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure
- • Avoid walking alone at night
- • Use reputable tour operators
Getting there
By air
- Mata Uri Airport • 2 km from city center
Getting around
Public transport
Buses are not extensive but can be used for some routes around the island.
Taxis
Available • Apps:
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
Hanga Piko
Vaihua
Mataveri
Day trips
Rano Kau
3 km from Hanga Roa • Half-day
A volcanic crater offering stunning views of the island and the Pacific Ocean.
Ana Kai Tangata
12 km from Hanga Roa • Half-day
A cave with ancient petroglyphs and a rich history of cannibalism.
Vaihu
18 km from Hanga Roa • Full-day
An archaeological site with restored Moai statues and ahu platforms.
Festivals
Tapati Festival • January or February (varies yearly)
Easter Celebrations • March or April (varies yearly)
Pro tips
- Book accommodation and tours well in advance, especially during peak season.
- Rent a car or bike to explore the island at your own pace.
- Visit the Moai statues early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid crowds and the heat.
- Try the local cuisine, especially the traditional Curanto.
- Respect the local culture and customs, and be mindful of the island's fragile environment.
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
